Feeding Therapy: Helping Children Develop Healthy Eating Skills

For many children, mealtime can be a struggle. Picky eating, difficulty swallowing, sensory sensitivities, or oral-motor challenges can turn eating into a stressful experience for both kids and parents. This is where feeding therapy comes in. At OrbRom Center, we offer specialized occupational therapy to help children develop the skills needed for safe and enjoyable eating experiences.

What Is Feeding Therapy?

Feeding therapy is a specialized form of therapy that helps children with difficulties related to eating, drinking, and swallowing. It is designed to address sensory, behavioral, and motor challenges that impact a child’s ability to eat a balanced diet. Our therapists at OrbRom Center use evidence-based techniques to help children feel comfortable and confident during meals.

Who Can Benefit from Feeding Therapy?

Feeding therapy is beneficial for children who:

• Have trouble chewing or swallowing food
• Avoid certain textures or types of food
• Experience gagging or choking while eating
• Have difficulty using utensils or drinking from a cup
• Show signs of food refusal or extreme picky eating
• Have medical conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, or developmental delays that affect feeding

If your child struggles with mealtime, an assessment at OrbRom Center can determine whether feeding therapy is the right solution. Schedule an assessment today.

How Feeding Therapy Works

At OrbRom Center, our occupational therapists use a play-based and child-centered approach to feeding therapy. Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Assessment and Goal Setting

Our therapists conduct a thorough assessment to understand the root cause of feeding difficulties. This may involve evaluating oral-motor skills, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral patterns around food.

2. Sensory and Oral-Motor Exercises

Many feeding challenges stem from sensory sensitivities or weak oral-motor skills. Our therapists use exercises such as blowing bubbles, chewing resistance tools, and tongue movement activities to strengthen oral muscles and improve coordination.

3. Gradual Food Exposure

For children who are extremely picky eaters, we use a step-by-step food exposure method. This involves introducing new foods in a fun and non-threatening way, allowing children to explore different textures, smells, and tastes at their own pace.

4. Parent Involvement and Training

Feeding therapy is most effective when parents are actively involved. We provide training and strategies for parents to implement at home, ensuring that progress continues outside the therapy sessions.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Feeding Therapy

Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in helping children develop the motor skills, coordination, and sensory processing abilities needed for eating. At OrbRom Center, our occupational therapy program is designed to support children in overcoming feeding difficulties, making mealtimes more enjoyable for the whole family. Learn more about our occupational therapy services.

Transform Your Child’s Mealtime Experience

If your child struggles with eating, feeding therapy at OrbRom Center can provide the support they need. Our experienced therapists use personalized techniques to help children develop healthier eating habits and gain confidence during mealtimes.

Contact OrbRom Center today to schedule an assessment and take the first step towards stress-free meals! Book an assessment now.